Spring Work Week 2027

As spring arrives, join our Iona Abbey work week and help prepare the Abbey for the season ahead. This discounted week combines practical work, worship and community life, offering the chance to make a meaningful contribution while enjoying the beauty of the island.

Whether you’re interested in volunteering on Iona, looking for a working holiday Scotland experience, or simply want to spend a week alongside others in shared purpose, you’ll become part of the Abbey’s rhythm of work, rest and worship.

“I loved the thought that we were participating in preparing the way for others to grow throughout the upcoming season.” – Previous Work Week participant

Costs: 6 Nights: £600 or £300 concession.

Where: The Iona Abbey

When: 6 March – 12 March 2027

Led by: The Iona Abbey Team

About the programme

The Spring Work Week is for people who enjoy practical work, shared purpose and being part of a community. Over six days, you’ll help prepare the Abbey for the season ahead, working alongside staff, volunteers and other guests to create a welcoming environment for those who will visit throughout the year.

This Iona work week combines meaningful work with worship, shared meals and time to enjoy the island. Whether you’re interested in volunteering on Iona, looking for a volunteering holiday Scotland experience, or simply want to contribute to something bigger than yourself, you’ll find opportunities to work, connect and reflect together.

Many guests tell us that one of the most rewarding parts of the week is the sense of shared achievement. By the end of your stay, you’ll have played a part in preparing the Abbey for another season of welcome, hospitality and community.

Can’t make these dates? We also offer a Work Week in the autumn (30th October–5th November) as we prepare the Abbey for the quieter winter months.

Meet the Programme Leader(s)

Your week will be guided by members of the Iona Abbey team, who hold the rhythm of community life, worship and shared activities throughout your stay.

What to expect

Each day follows a shared rhythm of work, worship and community life.

You’ll spend part of the day helping with practical tasks around the Abbey and grounds. Depending on the needs of the week, this might include gardening, painting, deep cleaning, preparing worship spaces or other seasonal projects. No specialist skills are required — just a willingness to contribute and work alongside others.

There is also time to enjoy the island, explore the coastline, and connect with fellow guests over shared meals and conversation. Worship in the Abbey Church is at the heart of each day, and everyone is warmly invited to take part.

This Iona Abbey work week offers a balance of purposeful activity and time to pause. While the week is more hands-on than many of our programmes, guests often find it to be a deeply rewarding and reflective experience. For those interested in UK Christian volunteering opportunities or a volunteer retreat in Scotland, it offers a unique way to contribute, connect and be part of the life of the Abbey.

The week concludes with a ceilidh celebration, giving everyone the chance to come together and celebrate what has been achieved.

Key Information

Before booking, it’s helpful to know that this week combines practical work with community life at the Abbey. You’ll contribute to a range of seasonal projects while sharing meals, worship and daily life with staff, volunteers and other guests. No specialist skills are required, and accommodation, meals and programme activities are included in the cost of your stay.